123NET, a Michigan-based provider of fiber internet, colocation and voice services, has been awarded approximately $86 million in funding through the federal Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) program to support a major expansion of its fiber-optic network across underserved communities throughout Michigan.

Working in coordination with the Michigan High-Speed Internet Office (MIHI), 123NET will use the funding to deploy approximately 1,700 miles of new fiber infrastructure, bringing high-speed connectivity to 17,000 BEAD-funded locations. The projects are part of a broader network expansion expected to reach 49,300 addresses across the state.

Administered by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), in coordination with state broadband offices, BEAD is a federal initiative designed to expand access to affordable, reliable high-speed internet throughout the United States.

Michigan's BEAD initiative represents an approximately $1.5 billion investment in broadband infrastructure, combining $920 million in federal funding with $550 million in private-sector matching contributions. The state has the third-highest number of BEAD-eligible locations in the nation and expects the program to connect nearly 200,000 homes, businesses and institutions.

"123NET is working alongside Michigan's public and private sectors to be part of the solution to combat the social, financial and geographic inequities that contribute to the digital divide," said Ken Fitzpatrick, Chief Executive Officer of 123NET.

Fitzpatrick adds, "The BEAD program and the funding it provides will create long-term, sustainable infrastructure for the digital services Michiganders need to achieve world-class connectivity."

Fiber Deployment Across 12 Michigan Counties

The BEAD-funded projects will extend 123NET's fiber footprint across 12 counties: Allegan, Barry, Calhoun, Eaton, Jackson, Kent, Kalamazoo, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland, Ottawa and Washtenaw.

The expansion is intended to address broadband availability gaps in communities where infrastructure deployment has historically been challenged by construction costs, permitting requirements and geographic considerations.

"Expanding fiber to underserved communities creates a rising tide for everyone, from the small business owner who can finally compete in a digital economy to the student who can access resources that were previously out of reach. Our team is proud to be part of delivering that promise to Michigan," said Chuck Irvin, 123NET's Chief Technology and Information Officer.

"MIHI is excited for the opportunity to expand broadband access throughout the state," said Eric Frederick, the state's Chief Connectivity Officer. "MIHI is dedicated to ensuring every Michigander can leverage technology to improve their quality of life."

Network Ownership Supports Deployment Strategy

A key component of 123NET's expansion strategy is its ownership and operation of its fiber network. By maintaining control of its infrastructure, the company can manage network planning, construction and deployment without relying on the third-party network arrangements that can introduce additional complexities and delays.

The company recently completed a significant fiber expansion in Allegan County through a Realizing Opportunity with Broadband Infrastructure Networks (ROBIN) grant. The project extended access to high-quality broadband service to thousands of additional Michiganders.

The new BEAD-funded projects are scheduled to begin in early 2027, representing another significant investment in Michigan's broadband infrastructure and long-term connectivity.

Residents in the designated expansion communities can visit 123NET's residential fiber internet website to register for service availability notifications.

Source: 123NET

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